Saxton Field Walking Tracks

Loop

Highlights & Must-See Features

While the entire walk is pleasant, there are a few standout features that make Saxton Field a notch above your average park walk:

• Saxton Pond & The Goddess of Flight: The pond is the undisputed jewel of the tracks. It’s a tranquil haven for local waterfowl and a magnet for photographers. Standing gracefully at the water's edge is the "Goddess of Flight" sculpture. This striking piece depicts a girl with fish adorning her skirt, holding a godwit (kuaka) aloft. It is a beautiful nod to the migratory birds that visit the nearby Waimea Inlet and adds a touch of sophisticated culture to your outdoor exercise.
• Orphanage Creek Native Restoration: The work done to restore the banks of Orphanage Creek is a highlight for nature lovers. It’s a fantastic example of how urban spaces can provide vital corridors for native biodiversity.
• Family Fun Zone: If you have the kids in tow, the playground and dedicated learn-to-ride areas are world-class. The learn-to-ride track, complete with miniature road markings and signs, is a local favourite for youngsters finding their balance on two wheels.
• Inclusivity: It is rare to find a trail so accommodating. The flat paths around the pond and main circuits are highly accessible for wheelchairs and mobility scooters, ensuring that everyone in the community can enjoy the fresh air.

Getting There

Getting to Saxton Field is a breeze, whether you are coming from Nelson CBD or Richmond. The complex is situated in Stoke and is well-signposted from the main arterial routes.

There is ample free parking available at various points throughout the 65-hectare site. For the most direct access to the walking tracks and the picturesque pond area, it is best to use the entrance off Main Road Stoke. If you are coming for a specific sporting event or prefer to start near the netball and hockey facilities, the entrances off Saxton Road provide plenty of space.

Wildlife Spotting

For a track located so close to residential areas, the birdlife at Saxton Field is remarkably active. The combination of open water, native plantings, and large trees makes it a sanctuary for several iconic New Zealand species.

Keep an eye out for the Pīwakawaka (New Zealand Fantail). These cheeky little birds are almost guaranteed to follow you along the Orphanage Creek section, flitting through the branches to catch insects stirred up by your footsteps. You will also frequently hear the melodic chime of the Tūī echoing from the taller trees, and if you are lucky, you might spot a Kererū (New Zealand Wood Pigeon) perched heavily on a branch, looking for berries.

The pond itself is home to a permanent population of Paradise Shelducks and Pūkeko (Swamp Hens). The Pūkeko, with their bright red beaks and indigo feathers, are often seen foraging in the damp grass nearby. It’s a great spot for children to observe bird behaviour up close, but do remember to keep your distance and let the wildlife go about their day undisturbed.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

Nelson is famous for its sunshine, and Saxton Field is a great place to soak it up year-round.

• Spring: This is perhaps the most beautiful time to visit. The native plantings are flush with new growth, and the pond area is often bustling with ducklings.
• Summer: It can get quite hot on the open stretches of the track. Because much of the walk traverses open fields, there isn’t always shade. We recommend starting your walk in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat.
• Autumn & Winter: The crisp, clear "Bluebird" days of a Nelson winter are perfect for a brisk walk here. The lack of elevation means you don't have to worry about ice or snow, making it a reliable year-round option.

• Sun protection: A hat and sunscreen are essential, as the open fields offer little protection from the fierce NZ sun.
• Water: While there are some drinking fountains near the sports pavilions, it’s always a good idea to carry a bottle.
• Dogs: Your four-legged friends are more than welcome! Just ensure they are kept on a lead in the main areas and that you pick up after them. The open spaces are a paradise for dogs on a leash.

Local & Regional Context

Saxton Field is a testament to what can be achieved through community collaboration. It is a premier sports and recreation venue jointly owned and managed by the Nelson City Council and Tasman District Council. This partnership reflects the shared spirit of the region, where the boundaries between "city" and "country" blur into a shared love for the outdoors.

The area holds significance as a modern-day gathering place, mirroring the historical importance of the region as a site of transit and resource gathering for Māori. The naming of Orphanage Creek carries its own local history, harking back to the colonial days of the Whakatu (Nelson) area. Today, the "Goddess of Flight" sculpture serves as a symbolic bridge between the natural world and the people who inhabit it, reminding us of our connection to the migratory paths of the birds and the tides of the nearby Tasman Bay.

After the Walk

One of the perks of a "suburban" hike is the proximity to excellent coffee and food. Once you’ve finished your loop, you are spoiled for choice when it comes to refuelling.

• The Coffee Factory (0.6km away): This is a local institution. Known for their serious approach to caffeine, it’s the perfect place for a post-walk flat white and a slice of something sweet. The atmosphere is relaxed and quintessentially Nelson.
• Saxton Lodge Restaurant (0.3km away): Located right on the doorstep of the field, this is a convenient option if you’ve worked up a real appetite. Their à la carte menu is hearty and welcoming.
• Greenmeadows Cafe (1.5km away): A short drive or a slightly longer walk away, this cafe offers great outdoor seating that is very dog-friendly. It’s a wonderful spot to sit in the sun and watch the world go by.
• Little Nessie Cafe (2.4km away): If you’re heading back towards the heart of Stoke, Little Nessie is a charming neighbourhood gem. Their brunch options are fantastic, and the dog-friendly deck is a big plus for pet owners.

Whether you’re training for a marathon or just looking for a quiet place to clear your head, the Saxton Field Walking Tracks offer a slice of Nelson life at its best—active, inclusive, and naturally beautiful.

600m away

A local favourite known for quality coffee and a relaxed atmosphere, ideal for a quick pick-me-up or a casual meet-up. [cite: 11 (previous search)]